On Wednesday International Holocaust Remembrance Day, the eleventh since the United Nations designated 27 January for that purpose, was marked by commemorative events throughout the world. To participate in the occasion, the Israeli Embassy brought out Professor Dina Porat, chief historian at Yad Vashem in Jerusalem and an internationally acknowledged expert in issues relating to contemporary Jewry and antisemitism. Our professional leadership had the opportunity of meeting and spending some time with her during her stay. The SAJBD has a long association with Prof Porat, mainly through the Stephen Roth Institute for the Study of Contemporary Antisemitism and Racism at Tel Aviv University, which she headed for a long time. We regularly provide the Institute with reports and statistics on antisemitism in South Africa, and in turn have found the comprehensive database it provides to be invaluable in assessing and evaluating the situation in South Africa compared with those of other countries.
Recent Articles
SAJBD has applied to be admitted as an amicus curia in the matter of Mendelsohn v University of Cape Town Council
The South African Jewish Board of Deputies (SAJBD) has applied to be admitted as an amicus curia (friend of the court) in the matter of Mendelsohn v University of Cape Town Council (UCT). This case concerns resolutions adopted by the UCT Council supporting a boycott of Israel. The case will take place this Thursday 23 and Friday 24 October.
The SAJBD condemns the planned protest against the Johannesburg Holocaust and Genocide Centre
The South African Jewish Board of Deputies (SAJBD) condemns the planned protest against the Johannesburg Holocaust and Genocide Centre (JHGC) by a coalition of organisations, including South African Jews for a Free Palestine (SAJFP), Africa4Palestine, the Palestine Solidarity Alliance, and BDS South Africa.
Today Hope Has Come Home!
Two years ago, on the morning of the festival Simchat Torah, the Jewish world was shattered by a brutal attack. Today, as we stand on the cusp of Simchat Torah once more, our spirits lifted by the long-awaited release of those held captive. We extend our heartfelt thanks to America and the Arab nations, including our fellow African nation- Egypt, who have brought about this historical moment.
Our hearts will be forever scarred by the knowledge that not all of the hostages are returning alive. And our sympathies and unwavering love go out to the families of those hostages who will return only as mortal remains.